'I have a physical disability and I would prefer people knew the truth’

For Sinead Curran from Cavan, sharing her story of living with MS is important to raise awareness of multiple sclerosis and to help people understand the physical and emotional impact of living with the condition. Sinead is sharing her story as part of MS Ireland’s campaign, MS Journeys: Many Faces, One Community, which highlights the many different experiences of people living with MS across Ireland and the importance of support, understanding and community connection. MS Ireland’s campaign is helping to show that no two MS journeys are the same, while reminding people living with MS that they are not alone.

Describing life with MS in one sentence, Sinead says it is “difficult both physically and mentally” and that “you’re forced to dig deeper at every level.”

MS has changed the way Sinead approaches life. She says she is “not as carefree” as she once was and now needs to plan ahead.

“An itinerary is essential. No such thing as spontaneity,” she says.

Her advice to someone newly diagnosed is to remain optimistic, informed and active. Sinead says: “We are in an age of science and technology so be optimistic regarding a cure in your lifetime, listen to medical experts but don’t be afraid to question things that you don’t understand.”

She also encourages people to limit stress and work with a physiotherapist to develop an exercise plan. The local MS community has been an important source of support for Sinead. She says the North-East community, like her friends, has been supportive and very understanding of what it means to live with an MS diagnosis. MS Ireland has also played a significant role in her life, encouraging her in her endeavours. She also enjoys participating in activities provided by MS Ireland, including yoga, meditation and a book club. For Sinead, in-person gatherings organised by her regional case worker and other MS Ireland members are always special occasions. She says the volunteers are “amazing” in the time, effort and support they give. One of the things that has surprised Sinead most about living with MS is fatigue. She says she “didn’t know what fatigue was” before MS, but she has also discovered an inner strength to keep going.

Some of her biggest challenges include working full-time, commuting for work and keeping her emotions level. To manage MS physically and emotionally, Sinead focuses on exercise, including both cardio and strength work, as well as meditation and mindfulness.

“You have to allow thoughts pass like clouds in the sky,” she says.

Sinead is proud that, while she was still able, she climbed Croagh Patrick. She is also keen to challenge misconceptions about MS, including the idea that exercise is not good for people living with the condition.

“Exercise is essential and good for you,” she says, adding that MS is “not an intellectual disability.”

Her message to others living with MS is that every person’s experience is different and that people should not compare their symptoms to anyone else’s. For Sinead awareness is essential.

“There is no shame in having MS,” she says. “I have a physical disability and I would prefer people knew the truth, not speculate what’s wrong with me.”

Through stories like Sinead’s, MS Ireland’s campaign aims to build understanding, challenge misconceptions and remind people living with MS that they are part of a strong, diverse and supportive community.